Is it OK to Burn Pine in a Fireplace?

Pine wood makes fine firewood.

Burning Pine

Pine splits well and makes good kindling. It seasons, or dries, faster than many other woods, and may be ready to burn in only a year, whereas denser woods may take two or more years. Fires from pine do not throw many sparks, which may be a safety concern with other woods. Pine fires burn very hot, which reduces the buildup of creosote in the chimney.

Avoiding Pine

Though pine burns hot, it also burns quickly and has a lower Btu rating than many other woods, meaning you will need a larger quantity of pine than of other woods. This may cause an inconvenience in storing pine and carrying the split logs into the house for burning.

Bottom Line

Pine is a perfectly acceptable firewood, as long as you are aware that you will need large amounts of pine to get through the winter.

References

• Master Sweep: Best Burning Wood Firewood
• University of Missouri Extension: Wood Fuel for Heating
• New Mexico State University: Firewood Facts
• Keep It Simple Firewood: Pine Firewood
• The University of Georgia: Firewood Buying, Burning Tips